‘We have the enthusiasm to face down every challenge’ – Pioli

extended their lead atop of Serie A standings to five points once again after they won the game against their tough opponent

Sampdoria

, with goals from

Franck Kessie

and

Samu Castillejo

, while they didn’t have their key players on the squad.

“I told the lads we are a real team. This is a group that makes the most of every situation, even the most negative, to prove what they can really do,” the coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“It’s the first time we were missing Ibra, Kjaer and Bennacer, who are leaders of the side, but they used this opportunity to prove they could keep the team going. It means we have the enthusiasm and the energy to face down every challenge.”

“These lads give their all throughout the week, these are the most difficult games after the Europa League, so winning them when we are considered the target for many other clubs, that is satisfying and we should celebrate.”

“I continue to be surprised by the maturity of these players, even thought it was probably the youngest side we’ve had all year. They never let themselves get downhearted by bad results or go overboard with good ones, they really impressed me.”

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